PRESS RELEASE FROM DISTRICT ADMINISTRATIVE CENTRE NAMCHI Towards a Cleaner Sikkim: A 26-km Journey of Unity and Impact, 24th May 2025.

Namchi, 18 May : In a powerful celebration of Sikkim’s 50th Statehood Day, Jorethang became the starting point for a transformative movement—”Towards a Cleaner Sikkim – One Step at a Time.” This historic cleanliness drive, launched on 18 May, brought together a wide spectrum of the community in an unprecedented show of unity and environmental responsibility.

Spearheaded by District Collector Ms Anupa Tamling , with the support of SDM HQ Mr Nim Pintso Bhutia, Organising President Mr Muk Hang Limboo, Promoter Mr Prakash Bista, and Voice NGO’s Mr. Issac Silal, the initiative was more than just a clean-up—it was a call to action. A symbolic profile picture campaign was also launched, encouraging citizens to show their support digitally while inspiring civic pride and responsibility offline.

The campaign’s centerpiece is a massive one-hour cleanliness drive on Saturday, 24 May, from 8:30AM to 9:30 AM. During this drive, a 26-kilometer stretch from Jorethang Bazaar to Melli Checkpost will be cleaned in record time—a feat never attempted before at this scale in the region of the state.

What truly sets this initiative apart is its collaborative spirit. The drive is jointly organized by Youth for Society, District Administration Namchi, Voice NGO, and Save Earth, with backing from 38 government departments, multiple drivers’ associations, municipal bodies, Zilla Panchayats, Jan Kalyan Club, Pratham NGO, and private sponsors such as:

1. Jai Enterprises

2. Pk Enterprises

3. ⁠Sinhal Tradings

4. ⁠Marwari yuva manch.

The effect of this monumental drive goes far beyond removing litter:

– Environmental Awareness: It brings environmental consciousness to the forefront, making cleanliness not just an event, but embracing the habits of loving and protecting the nature of Sikkim and reparenting the way of life of Sikkim.

– Tourism Boost: A cleaner stretch from Jorethang to Melli, a key route for tourists, enhances Sikkim’s image as an eco-friendly destination.

– Civic Responsibility: The active involvement of citizens promotes a culture of volunteerism and public ownership of community spaces.

-Youth Engagement: With young volunteers at the helm, the campaign empowers the next generation to become environmental stewards.

– Policy Momentum: The success of this drive can influence sustainable waste management policies and long-term cleanliness programs across the state.

As brooms sweep the road and hearts swell with pride, this movement stands as a shining example of what a community can achieve when united by purpose. “Towards a Cleaner Sikkim” is not just about cleaning streets—it’s about shaping a cleaner, healthier, and more conscious future for all of us.